Monday, February 18, 2008

I'm Not There

Todd Haynes' I'm Not There shuns the clear, non-fictional storytelling that has defined musical biopics (such as Walk The Line and this year's La Vie En Rose) and instead leaps into a non-literal, metaphorical realm (something like the tardy Across the Universe, although this is no glorified 2 hour long music video).

The subject? Bob Dylan, played by six different actors/characters. Each represents an aspect of himself at some point of his career and personality. Brilliant acting dominates, especially by Marcus Franklin (who plays the 11 year old version of Dylan) and Cate Blanchett (Dylan at the height of his fame).

It's an experimental movie, and that means some may find it weird. Of course, others will find it brilliant. My opinion of this movie would lie somewhere in between: it is superb and compelling at some points, and at others I couldn't care less. But at its heart, I'm Not There is still a musical biopic, and while it may not appeal to everyone, it sure works very well- even as a genre picture.

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